WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Jack Klerk, 62, of Three Rivers, left this world on Memorial Day 2016. He was born in Kalamazoo where he grew up on Waite Avenue with the Winchell gang and graduated from Loy Norrix and Albion College with a biology degree. He went on to be a middle school science teacher on St. Croix in the US Virgin Islands where he met and married his wife of 33 years, Jennifer.
Returning to Kalamazoo, Jack completed his financial planning certification and worked for Roney & Company for a decade. Later, returning to his teaching roots as a trainer for Duncan Aviation.
Jack was a master at wooden boat work and had restored various award-winning Chris Crafts. He always had a story to tell and memories to share. He loved animals, especially the greatest dog in the world, Boulder, as well as his kitties Bob and Oprah. He loved the warm waters of Naples, Fla., Keewaydin Island, St. Croix and the one weekend in the summer in South Haven. A true sailor, Jack spent many days on the water racing 210s and J24s on Gull Lake.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. William and Anne Klerk; his kitty, Spike; and his beloved dog, Boulder. He is survived by his wife, Jenny; his brothers, Bill of Kalamazoo, Jim of Florida, Larry (Sue) of North Carolina and many nieces and nephews. A visitation will be held from 1-3 p.m. with a prayer service at 2 p.m. on Friday, June 3 at Life Story Funeral Homes, Portage, 5975 Lovers Lane (344-5600). A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, June 5 at the Northside Municipal Marina in South Haven from 1-4 p.m. Please visit www.lifestorynet.comto read Jack’s complete life story, leave a memory and sign his guest book. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Jack’s name to the St. Joseph County Animal Shelter.
